The India South Africa T20 series got off to a damper with rain playing spoilsport in Dharamsala. The two nations play their second game of the series in Mohali where they will be looking to get their noses in front. With the T20 World Cup coming up next year, both the sides are looking to find their feet in the format post the 2019 World Cup. India playing at home are confident, but with fine margins separating teams in the shortest format of the game, the Proteas are always in the fray. A look at the players to watch out for in the contest. India Vs South Africa, Cricket Score 2nd T20I Match.

Rohit Sharma

Rohit Sharma of India (Photo Credits: Getty Images)

The Indian opener is known for going hammer and tongs early on in his innings which gives breathing space for the batsmen to follow. We have not seen him much post his exploits in the World Cup in England and the hitman’s duel with Kagiso Rabada is a standout feature of the game.

Rishabh Pant

Rishabh Pant of India (Photo Credits: Getty Images)

The youngster is under a lot of pressure to perform after critics have questioned his ability to perform at the big stage. Pant repeatedly throws his wicket even in situations where there is nothing happening for the bowlers. The team management may not continue to afford him chances, and hence, it is an important game for Pant.

Hardik Pandya

Hardik Pandya of India (Photo Credits: Getty Images)

The maverick all-rounder is an asset in the T20 format of the game with contributions both with bat and bowl. Virat Kohli expects Pandya to lead the Indian attack in the middle stages of the innings where the Proteas will be looking for quick runs. Constant niggles in the back have disrupted his rhythm and fitness will be an area of concern for him throughout the season.

India vs South Africa, 2nd T20I 2019 Preview

Quinton de Kock

Quinton de Kock of South Africa (Photo Credits: Getty Images)

The Proteas skipper has a lot of experience playing in Indian conditions courtesy the Indian Premier League but leading a young squad is always a challenge. The visitors need him to fire in the powerplays to gain early momentum in the game. With a new-look middle order to follow the wicketkeeper-batsman, De Kock has to put a price on his wicket.

Kagiso Rabada

Kagiso Rabada of South Africa (Photo Credits: Getty Images)

One of the best fast bowlers in the current generations, Rabada was a huge hit in the 2019 Indian Premier League. His initial burst in the first six overs may go a long way in deciding how India go about their innings. During the death overs, Rabada’s toe crushing Yorkers and slower ones are also a treat to watch.

Both the teams have quality players, but the visitors look just a bit short in the batting department which may prove decisive in the game.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 18, 2019 02:46 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).